SLC Writing Tutor
About
I hold an MFA in Dramatic Writing and an MA in Speech and Hearing Sciences. Therefore, I am specialized in both creative and academic writing. I know that the student is the content expert for the course they are taking; what I bring is a creative, flexible approach to the writing process (e.g. mind mapping) and the ability to converse with the student to ascertain their message verbally, as well as in writing. Further, I have worked with students with 504 plans and IEPs, so I can work well with students with alternative learning styles.
I enjoy discussing the topic with the student, so they realize 1) how much they already know about it, and 2) that they have something of value to say about it. I also enjoy equally working with linear thinkers who want to start with a linear outline and with nonlinear thinkers who see unlikely or global connections. I enjoy bringing out ways of articulating the big picture of the writing, so that then the details of the writing are evident. For example, we converse until we have identified the student's thesis; then we brainstorm main points before ordering them.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
As mentioned above, I enjoy having a conversation first. A conversation allows us to get to know each other, and I get a sense of the student's interests and preferences, before we approach a specific writing assignment. Then, in regards to a specific writing assignment, I like to talk through the topic and discover what the student would like to say about it, processing the information verbally first. This is especially helpful for students who think they have nothing to say, or don't know what they want to say. We discover their message by speaking.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold an MFA in Dramatic Writing through the University of New Mexico. During my studies there, I worked as a Writing Tutor through the UNM Center for Academic Program Support (CAPS) for a semester. They offered thorough training for tutoring undergraduate and graduate students in writing. I have also worked in K-12 education settings, for a total of 5 academic years. I have worked with graduating seniors on writing and editing their college application essays. Therefore, I have the education, skills, and training to tutor writing for K-12 and undergraduate students in creative and academic writing.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I work on a sliding scale, based on family ability to pay. My ideal pay rate is $25/hour. My sliding scale is $15-$35/hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I was a Speech-Language Pathologist in an elementary school at first. Then, I was the Learning Support Coordinator at a middle/high school, providing academic support. I also taught English as a Foreign Language for high school students from China, the Ukraine, and South Korea. I found that I much prefer a 1-on-1 coaching approach to managing an entire classroom of students with different needs, skills levels, intelligences, and approaches. I would much rather work 1-on-1 to produce writing that is unique to the student's own style.
What types of students have you worked with?
I lived in New Mexico 2009-2020 and gained my teaching experience thus far there. My student population there mirrored that of the local community: approximately 60% Hispanic; 20% Native American; 15% Anglo; 5% Interracial, International, Asian, and African American. I have worked with students with 504 plans and IEPs, so I understand and highly value other forms of learning and processing information, such as kinesthetic, auditory, and visual learners, just as well as verbal thinkers and learners. I incorporate play into sessions.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I moved to a new area and discovered an amazing park near where I live. It was awe-inspiring, walking around and discovering the types of trees that grow in this area.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
You don't need to know what you want to write about before you arrive at a session. We get to discover what it is you want to say through my asking questions and your speaking your viewpoint. We can capture phrases, ideas that come from you as we have the discussion. Too often, we think of writing as a silent, solo, still activity. In creative and even academic writing, we need to approach writing as a conversational, social, and movement-based activity. Let's literally get the ideas moving! You do not need to know what you want to say beforehand.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
*What's your favorite way of approaching material?
*What is the assignment at hand?
*What are some initial thoughts you have about this topic?
*How do you feel about it?
*Where might you look for other writers who support (or contrast with) your view?